First Look: 2011 Ford Explorer

—Dearborn, Michigan

Ford’s sprawling Dearborn campus is home to many walled-off buildings with blackened windows that work to keep prying eyes out. Every time we drive by, we can’t help but try to catch a glimpse of what’s inside. This time however, we got to see the other side. We were invited in to see an extremely important new Ford, the 2011 Explorer. We spent half-a-day at Ford’s Product Development Center being briefed on all that is new with the Explorer.

The Explorer is just one part of Ford’s company-wide initiative to increase fuel economy through the use of smaller displacement engines and turbocharging. V-6s are being replaced with turbocharged (“EcoBoost” in Ford speak) I-4s, while V-8s are getting booted in favor of naturally-aspirated or turbocharged V-6s. Gone are the 4.0-liter Cologne V-6, and the 4.6-liter modular V-8 of the old Explorer, to be replaced with a new direct-injected, 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 and a 3.5-liter V-6. Both new engines feature considerable jumps in fuel economy, which Ford reps were adamant is the number one reason customers turned away from SUVs.

The 2.0T produces 237 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. That’s 27 more horsepower and only 4 pound-feet of torque less than the old 4.0, but Ford claims a thirty percent improvement in fuel economy. The 3.5-liter V-6 produces 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. While that is less power than the 4.6-liter V-8, a twenty percent improvement in fuel economy softens the blow.

Those improved mileage numbers aren’t just because of the engines. A 100 pound weight reduction combined with new technology, and a body that cuts through the air more efficiently plays a big part. Unfortunately, the lower power means the Explorer can’t quite tow as much. The 2.0T is rated at only 2000 pounds, while the 3.5-liter can only handle 5000 pounds.

Both motors transmit their power through six-speed automatics, but only the 3.5-liter V-6 sends power to all four wheels. The 2.0T has to make due with front-wheel drive only.

The Explorer has gone through some big aesthetic changes for the new model year. The new design is a tasteful adaption of the Bold American (current Ford Focus) and European Kinetic (new Ford Fiesta) design languages. Up front, the three-bar grill remains, while the jeweled headlights trail into the fenders. From the rear tip of the headlights, you can imagine a line leading to the LED taillights, which are similar in shape. Ford was anxious to emphasize the aggressively angled, body-color C-pillar, which gives the car a bit more character. The tailgate is notable for the massive rear spoiler jutting out from the roof, which is sure to cycle air where the Ford team wants it. The exterior of the car underwent extensive computer and wind tunnel testing to get the shape just right.

Ford execs were proud of the brand’s improvement in the J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Survey, and were quick to point out that the Explorer team benchmarked Lexus and Audi during the design process. Everything in the interior seemed to fit together neatly. Door panels and dash pieces felt solid, and didn’t creak when pressure was applied. The switchgear felt good, while the other primary driver contact points (steering wheel, HVAC, nav) would have been at home on a much more expensive car. Even on the exterior, panels fit together flush, and according to Ford, some of the panels have smaller gaps than comparable Audi models.

The Explorer is getting a host of innovative features to protect its occupants. The second row is equipped with industry-first, inflatable seat belts. Ford demonstrated that the inflatable belts do a better job of distributing the impact force from a collision by applying the shock over a wider surface area. They are also pretty comfortable compared to a normal belt, which should keep Junior wearing it properly.

Ford hasn’t given a firm date on availability, pricing, or official fuel economy numbers, but we should know more in the months ahead. Check back for more information, including our first drive in the coming months.

MAJOR SUV FUEL ECONOMY GAINS, TECHNOLOGY, STYLE HIGHLIGHT REINVENTION OF FORD EXPLORER

* Ford reinvents the Explorer SUV with best-in-class fuel economy, improved driving dynamics and terrain management system – all wrapped in a modern, weight-saving design
* Explorer raises the bar on safety with a class-leading array of airbags including industry-first inflatable rear seat belts, Trinity front impact structure, AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™) and Curve Control functionality
* Explorer features MyFord Touch™ driver connect technology and SYNC® integrated communications and entertainment system to help keep a driver’s eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Explorer offers more technology than in-class competitors, rivaling content found in premium SUVs

DEARBORN, Mich., July 26, 2010 – Ford Explorer – the vehicle that defined a segment – has been completely reinvented, raising customers’ expectations of sport utility vehicle (SUV) fuel efficiency, safety, technology, capability and quality.

“The all-new Explorer will deliver today’s SUV buyers the attributes they really want and value, and a few they might not even have dreamed of,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “We’re proud to introduce the new Explorer to customers and fans around the world today and pleased to begin a whole new era that blends strong SUV fuel economy and performance.”

The all-new Explorer launches today to its Facebook friends in a unique social media initiative, followed by reveal events throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Shattering SUV fuel economy and performance expectations
“The new Explorer simply does everything well,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “It raises the bar for ride and handling on the road and transforms the off-road experience. It’s the hands-down winner for towing capability and ease. All this capability – and three rows of seating – with amazing fuel economy will make Explorer the absolute right choice for families with a sense of adventure.”

The 2011 Explorer with V6 power is expected to deliver more than 20 percent better fuel economy than the 2010 model, shattering conventional expectations for SUV fuel efficiency. When equipped with the available 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ I-4 engine, Explorer fuel economy is expected to improve by more than 30 percent and exceed the 2010 Honda Pilot and 2010 Toyota Highlander V6.

Chief Nameplate Engineer Jim Holland said the team targeted two key objectives when developing the 2011 Ford Explorer.

“It had to look modern and contemporary – inside and out – yet be instantly recognizable as an Explorer,” said Holland. “Next, the new Explorer needed to deliver the fuel economy today’s customers want, combined with the performance, capability and empowerment they expect from an SUV.”

Driven by the commitment to give customers unsurpassed fuel efficiency with each new vehicle, Ford attacked every detail to transform Explorer with significantly improved fuel economy:

* Twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT)
* Latest Ford EcoBoost engine
* Six-speed automatic transmissions
* Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) to significantly reduce parasitic power loss
* Intelligent four-wheel drive (4WD)
* Variable-displacement air-conditioning compressor
* Optimized tires for reduced rolling resistance
* Slippery aerodynamics with harmonized front air dam and rear liftgate spoiler

Weight reduction is a key element in improving Explorer fuel efficiency. While adding significant content to the vehicle, engineers were able to reduce total vehicle weight by almost 100 pounds through the use of lighter materials such as an aluminum hood. Explorer weight loss is even more impressive, as the latest versions of Honda Pilot and Toyota 4Runner have added pounds versus previous models.

Explorer’s available advanced 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 delivers the power of a normally aspirated V6 without compromising four-cylinder fuel economy. Aimed at the SUV buyer whose top priority is fuel economy, this turbocharged and intercooled I-4 engine delivers a projected 237 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 250 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,700 through 4,000 rpm. The EcoBoost employs direct injection of gasoline, Ti-VCT, direct-acting mechanical bucket (DAMB) valve lifters and four valves per cylinder.

Explorer’s standard powertrain combines front-wheel drive with a 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine, delivering an estimated 290 horsepower and 255 lb.-ft. of torque. Ti-VCT allows individually optimized camshaft timing of valve opening and closing events to improve mechanical efficiency while delivering increased power and reducing part-throttle emissions. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, this powerful, flexible and efficient V6 is projected to deliver more than 20 percent better fuel economy versus the previous Explorer V6 model.

Explorer’s variable-displacement air-conditioning compressor provides a fuel economy benefit with less drag and smoother transition for improved driveability.

Each Explorer engine is paired with a unique six-speed automatic transmission, combining lowered initial gears for improved off-the-line acceleration and higher gearing for improved efficiency at lower engine rpm when cruising.

Explorer V6 models are available with an intelligent 4WD system that adds terrain management. Situation-selectable, this powertrain advancement takes the guesswork out of 4WD range choice.

A driver need only turn the console-mounted knob to the proper setting among snow, sand, mud and normal modes. This system also includes a hill descent mode.

Simpler and more convenient for SUV veterans, the system will be a confidence-builder for drivers new to the segment.

Contemporary design with segment-leading craftsmanship and quietness
In addition to its clean, modern design inside and out, Explorer aims to please SUV shoppers with a thoughtful, flexible interior package that abounds with clever storage capacity. The new SUV features more head and shoulder room, three rows of flexible seating, and room for everything families want to take along on their adventures.

The Explorer design – inside and out – is executed with world-class craftsmanship. Tight margin gaps are just one indication of the immense attention to detail applied to craftsmanship across the spectrum, from design to engineering to manufacturing.

The Chicago facility where Explorer will be produced raised the bar on initial quality measures with the recent Taurus launch, which is good news for customers.

“Crafting a high-quality vehicle is like preparing a gourmet meal,” said Peter Bejin, craftsmanship supervisor. “You start with high-quality ingredients, execute your recipe with flawless preparation and finally, present it with flair and panache.”

Quietness – another profound advancement in the all-new 2011 Ford Explorer – also will signal quality to customers.

The team enhanced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control for the all-new Explorer using an advanced technology called NoiseVision. A ball with hundreds of tiny cameras and microphones, NoiseVision allows engineers to pinpoint and address potential noise issues earlier in the development process.

Explorer is expected to be superior to in-segment competitors and rival premium SUVs in quietness and NVH control.

Explorer safety – strength, technology and innovation
The all-new Explorer targets top safety ratings with a stiff unibody structure and a class-leading suite of active and passive safety features and technologies, plus another Ford safety innovation – the world’s first second-row inflatable rear belts.

Rear seat passengers – often children or mature passengers – can be more vulnerable to head, chest and neck injuries. Ford’s unique inflatable rear belts spread impact forces across more than five times the area than conventional seat belts, reducing pressure on the chest while helping to control head and neck motion. Belt comfort should also help increase usage rates. Studies show inflatable belts to be more comfortable for passengers due to padding.

From the boron front bumper beam through the hydroformed front frame rails and high-strength steel side-impact tubes, Explorer’s rigid body structure is designed to provide robust protection for occupants. In the instance of a crash, these elements come together to protect Explorer driver and passengers inside a safety cage of strength.

Standard Explorer safety features include:

* AdvanceTracwith RSC features Curve Control functionality to provide braking – optimized by each individual wheel
* Second-generation first-row airbags, side seat airbags
* Belt-Minder® for driver and first-row passenger
* Front passenger sensing system
* Energy-management system pretensioning for height-adjustable first-row seat belts
* LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for outboard second-row positions, for safely securing child safety seats
* SOS Post-Crash Alert System™
* Safety Canopy® side curtain airbags
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Available Explorer safety features include:

* Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support
* BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert

Stretching the breadth of capability
The 2011 Ford Explorer redefines customer expectations for driving dynamics and comfort – on any road, anytime, anywhere – while stretching the breadth of SUV capability. Transforming Explorer’s driving quality was central to creating an SUV for 21st century customers.

“Our objectives for Explorer dynamics were threefold,” said Carl Widmann, vehicle engineering manager. “The first element was to greatly increase on-road comfort, capability and driving dynamics. The second was to maintain the ‘any road, anytime, anywhere’ capability of the previous model. Finally, we aimed to apply technology to the task of safely towing, as V6 Explorer models are rated up to 5,000 pounds. We think customers will be pleased with the next-generation Explorer on all three counts.”

The theme of the all-new Explorer dynamics development was balance. The team sought to provide an engaging driver experience in harmony with the extended breadth of 4WD capability to build driver confidence.

The shift to a unibody construction platform enabled a reduction in road noise and significantly decreased Explorer body roll in dynamic cornering situations. Independent front suspension is of the short- and long-arm configuration with a 32-millimeter front stabilizer bar. Independent rear suspension is the SR1 configuration, so-named for its one-to-one shock absorber ratio, which enables precise ride control.

Explorer’s EPAS system allows for variable rates of assistance based on speed, turn-in and direction. In addition to optimized steering feel, tight on-centering and appropriate resistance, EPAS provides a fuel economy benefit in comparison to traditional hydraulic power assist systems. EPAS also enables a competitive turning radius for optimum maneuverability in parking situations, combined with increased assistance at low speeds for parking ease.

EPAS allows for the addition of Curve Control, a new feature that senses when a driver enters a turn too quickly and applies brake pressure to stabilize the vehicle.

In addition, EPAS enables the optional active park assist technology. When activated, the system scans for a suitable spot, calculates the trajectory, and steers the vehicle. The driver continues to control brake and throttle inputs, but the system steers the vehicle throughout the parking maneuver.

Off-roading standout on a variety of surfaces
The key to Explorer 4WD capability is Ford’s new terrain management system.

Replacing the traditional SUV transfer case configuration, the new system takes the guesswork out of maximizing 4WD and the capabilities it enables. Rather than employment of four-high, four-low and auto settings, Explorer terrain management is selectable by situation. The four settings – available by shift-on-the-fly – include normal, mud, sand and snow.

Each setting provides unique engine behavior, throttle tip-in, transmission shift scheduling and calibrations for traction and stability control systems. Terrain management also includes Hill Descent Control™, which provides engine braking to increase driver confidence and control when descending a steep incline.

Explorer models with V6 power are rated to tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds. To aid with hookup – especially when alone – a reverse camera with zoom-in functionality is available, allowing a driver to back up to the trailer on-center. The Explorer towing package includes trailer sway control – a stability package shared with the Ford F-150 pickup – to help minimize trailer sway. Trailer brake controller wiring is also included, as is a tow/haul mode. Engaging tow/haul mode increases engine braking to help slow the vehicle and trailer when descending steep grades.

Loaded with features, convenience and connectivity
The all-new Explorer is available in three trim series levels – base, XLT and Limited. Each offering presents a robust array of standard features, with a class-leading selection of additional convenience and connectivity options so a buyer can tailor a new Explorer to his or her individual needs and desires.

Standard convenience features include:

* MyForddriver connect technology including 4.2-inch LCD screen
* MyKey™ owner control feature
* Air filtration system
* Media hub
* Easy Fuel® capless fuel filler system
* Cruise control
* Power windows, with one-touch down for driver
* Power door locks with child safety rear door locks
* Tilt/telescoping steering column
* Four 12-volt power points
* Cargo hooks

Explorer XLT includes standard content and adds:

* Automatic headlamps
* Six-speed SelectShift Automatic™
* Heated sideview mirrors with LED signal indicators and security approach lamps
* SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad
* Reverse sensing system
* Perimeter alarm

Explorer Limited includes all base and XLT content, plus:

* PowerFold® sideview mirrors with driver’s side memory
* Ambient lighting
* Adjustable pedals with memory functionality
* Cargo net
* Dual-zone electronic temperature control
* 10-way power driver’s seat, with power recline and lumbar
* Electrochromic interior mirror
* Rear view camera
* Remote start system
* 110-volt outlet
* MyFord Touchdriver connect technology
* Intelligent Access with push-button start
* Universal garage door opener

“We spent our time listening to customers and addressing their needs to launch an SUV that reinvigorates the Explorer nameplate and delivers on Ford’s promise of high-quality, fuel-efficient and technologically advanced vehicles with industry-leading safety,” said Holland. “The all-new Explorer will change market perceptions about SUV style, fuel efficiency, technology and user-friendliness.”

The 2011 Explorer will be assembled at Ford’s Chicago manufacturing facility. Production begins late this year, and Explorer will be available in dealerships this winter.

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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 176,000 employees and about 80 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln andMercury, production of which has been announced by the company to be ending in the fourth quarter of 2010, and, until its sale, Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.